Highs in the 70s mark end of 44-day heat streak

Cooler temperatures today ushered in a bit of relief for Chicago residents, bringing an end to 44 days of 80 degree-plus weather that at times reached above the 100 degree mark.

Wednesday's high of 84 ended a 44-day heat streak that was the 2nd longest of 80 degree-plus days. The record longest was set in 2010 when the area experienced 46 consecutive days of highs above 80 degrees, officials said.

The top five historical years of consecutive days when highs reached over 80 in Chicago include 1983 with 32 days; 1995 with 34 days; 1955 with 42 days; 2012 with 44 days, and 2010 with 46 days, according to the National Weather Service.

As rain and scattered storms moved in Thursday afternoon, officials expected temperatures to hover in the mid to upper 70s, falling to the low 60s overnight.

Friday, showers and thunderstorms were expected to continue into the morning hours with temperatures in the lower 70s, officials said.